How to Do Power Yoga

Power yoga, also called Ashtanga yoga, is a style of yoga that stresses strength and stamina. The practice is said to be beneficial to your overall health and well-being.

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Learn all the basic yoga poses -- downward facing dog, lotus, plank, and so on -- so you can get toned and find a little inner calmness, too.

 
 

You Will Need

  • Comfortable clothes
  • A yoga mat
  • Internet access (optional)
  • Yoga books (optional)
  • Classes (optional)

Steps

  1. If you have been inactive for a length of time, or if you've had any recent surgery or physical problems, particularly of the muscles and joints, please consult your doctor before you start a stretching or exercise program.

  2. Step 1

    Organize your space

    Organize your yoga space by placing your mat in a quiet spot where there is room to spread your arms and legs.

  3. Step 2

    Breathe

    Focus on your breath as you flow from pose to pose. Inhale at the start of a pose and exhale as you move to the next pose.

  4. Step 3

    Begin with vinyasa

    Practice the first series of poses in power yoga, called a vinyasa. Stand with your arms by your sides. Then inhale, bringing your arms to prayer position in front of you, slowly extending your arms over your head.

  5. Look up other postures in yoga books or online.

  6. Step 4

    Fold over

    Exhale. Fold over at your waist until your hands touch the floor, your toes, or your ankles.

  7. Step 5

    Lift up, then plank

    Inhale. Lift halfway up, exhale, and then go into plank position.

  8. Step 6

    Do downward dog

    Inhale, move through to cobra position, exhale, and then go into downward dog. Hold downward dog for three breaths.

  9. A good way to extend your practice is by taking a class. Check your local fitness center for class offerings.

  10. Step 7

    Repeat

    Repeat the vinyasa as many times as you need to get warm. As you get more comfortable, add other poses and get stronger as you do.

  11. Yoga originated in India over 5,000 years ago.

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